Nine Reminders Every Twentysomething needs to hear

No one is perfect. As a twentysomething looking at other, more experienced adults I sometimes feel like I’m doing it wrong. Well, I’m not. No one is and sometimes we just need to be reminded of that.

In fact, as we try to figure things out there are a few things we all needed to be reminded of.

1. You don’t need to be working your dream job right now.
There is no “right way” to navigate the career world. Yes, that girl you graduated with may seem like she’s kicking ass and taking names, but do you know she loves her job? That guy you heard still doesn’t have a job in his field…he loves his job. Now, that’s not to say people that have jobs in their fields don’t enjoy them. We’re just all at a different place. Some of us are still in school, some are in Americorps, some found out college wasn’t for them and some need a little motivation. Still others are working internships, conquering perfect fit entry level positions or discovering they may need to switch fields. Don’t worry, we’ll get there.

2. It’s okay to feel lost sometimes.
You don’t always have to have the answer. That’s what friends and family are for. The answers will come.

3. Your body isn’t 16 anymore, be nice to it.
Maybe don’t order a large fry, a medium will do just fine. Better yet, consider cutting down on the amount of food you eat out and alcohol you consume. You’re body will thank you. Yes, you can still splurge and have fun. I’m not a nazi.

4. It’s okay to say no.
It’s great to be eager and helpful especially as you start your career, but always remember you can say no. Someone else can work those hours. The project will get done. The same rule applies to all areas of your life. If your friends are going out for the night and you just don’t feel like it, say no. It really is okay.

5. Don’t compare yourself.
This is important. You do you. Don’t worry about what Sally or Henry are doing. They aren’t you. Their situation is different. You may not be in a place to buy a house, get engaged or find a new job. Maybe they are. That’s okay. Again, that’s okay!

6. It’s okay to make mistakes and you don’t need to be embarrassed about them.
Adulting is hard. We’re all learning. One of the fastest ways to learn is to make mistakes. When you do, don’t be embarrassed. Learn from it. Ask for help if you need to. We’ll figure it out together.

7. There is no cookie cutter for love.
Wouldn’t it be nice if there was a hard and fast rule we could all follow to help us find the person we are meant to be with? A girl can dream. In the mean time try to remember what works for you is not what works for someone else.

8. Make sure you communicate.
Don’t expect anyone to read your mind. Speak up when you want something, when you have a question or when someone hurts your feelings. Never assume someone knows something you haven’t told them.

9. You have your whole life to figure things out.
You have time. You’ll figure things out. Take a deep breath and just live a little.

Feel better? I know I do.